About
An evergreen shrub with narrowly lance-shaped grey-green leaves and terminal clusters of salver-shaped, pink, white or red flowers 3-4cm across, in summer.
About the genus
Nerium are evergreen shrubs with linear or narrowly oblong leaves and terminal clusters of salver- or funnel-shaped flowers, followed by long, bean-like seed-pods
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toMediterranian to W China
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten, smoke from burning is harmful. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow outdoors in moist but well-drained soil in full sun in sheltered frost-free conditions. Grow under glass in peat-free, loam-based compost in full light, ventilate well
PruningPruning group 9. May need restrictive pruning under glass in late winter. Will tolerate hard pruning
PropagationPropagate by seed, semi-hardwood cuttings or by air layering in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs and glasshouse red spider mite under glass
Disease resistanceHigh Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa. May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)